Genetic fingerprints

In 1998, Professor Jean-Paul Moisan’s team carried out the very first genetic profiles in the course of a criminal investigation in France. In 2003, this major step lead to the founding of IGNA, pioneer of forensic DNA analysis.

Our skills

DNA profiling from objects or biological reference samples of individuals

Identification of people

Paternity test, filiation research

Updating of the Fnaeg database

The service we provide

Collection of reference samples on crime scenes

Nuclear and mitochondrial DNA analysis

Further explanation

Nuclear DNA is found in the nucleus of every cell – in two copies (originating from the mother and the biological father) – and contains the genetic pool of the individual. Nuclear DNA is easier to analyze and, although it is the most fragile, we look for it first.

Conversely, mitochondrial DNA is found in large numbers of copies inside the cells and deteriorates a lot less in the presence of external agents. This DNA is therefore easier to analyze when the available biological material is found in minute quantities or is degraded, but its analysis is also more complex.